Determining information requirements: A contingency method for selection of a requirements assurance strategy

If the information requirements for an information system application can be established accurately and completely and then documented clearly and unambiguously, there is a high probability that the application can be successfully designed and implemented. Information requirements determination consists of two major processes: 1. (1) eliciting requirements and 2. (2) requirements assurance. Many techniques, procedures, and methodologies have been proposed for these two processes. This paper describes the selection of a strategy for information requirements assurance. Selection of the appropriate strategy depends on environmental and project contingencies. Contingencies determine the level of uncertainty to be resolved in order to ensure an accurate and complete statement of information requirements. Based on the level of uncertainty, the strategy for assurance may be to accept the requirements as stated or to follow either a linear, iterative, or experimental assurance process. The approach to strategy selection is illustrated by a contingency analysis worksheet for evaluating requirements uncertainty and by examples.